A city gasping: When will Delhi demand clean air?

Delhi is facing a severe air pollution crisis, with PM2.5 and other pollutants causing thousands of deaths annually, affecting children, elders, and overall public health, increasing respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Crop burning in Punjab and Haryana, vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and weak regulations worsen the situation. Despite known causes, responses remain short-term and politically contentious between central and state governments. Effective solutions require coordinated, inter-state action, stricter emission controls, transport reforms, green infrastructure, and continuous monitoring. Collective awareness and political will are essential to transform Delhi from enduring toxic air to a city with breathable, healthy air for all citizens.